Losing three out of five members usually signifies the end of a band, yet Nightrage solidered on, acquired new members, and cranked out the 12-track A NEW DISEASE IS BORN. And while the album's title is exaggerated, the freshened-up unit does in fact provide a smattering of furious middle of the road melodic death metal, with cuts like "Reconcile" and "Scathing" resonating strongest. While the name recognition of the members of Nightrage has greatly diminished, the current lineup shows itself to be a durable troupe capable of taking their music to Gothenburg's highest points with a modern feel on tracks like "Death-like Silence" and "Encircle" without any hesitation. www.lifeforcerecords.com
- Mike SOS